Evolution or status quo – regional operational programmes in the Eu financial perspective 2014-2020

Purpose: The publication presents the evolution of the European Union policy implemented in Poland, focusing primarily on the 2014-2020 perspective, which was characterized by its decentralization. Design/methodology/approach: The method of statistical data analysis and source materials was used in the work. Findings: As a result of the conducted research, it was indicated that the 2014-2020 perspective was characterized not only by the highest allocation of financial resources, but the solutions proposed therein led to a deeper decentralization of regional policy in Poland consisting in the construction of two-fund regional programs (ERDF and ESF), prepared, managed and implemented at the regional level, bringing the thereby increasing the effectiveness of this policy. Originality/value: The literature research and statistical analysis carried out in the article served to show the evolution of the regional policy decentralization process on maximizing its effects. The research results are dedicated to a wide group of people and entities benefiting from the support of European Union funds. Keywords: cohesion policy, region, operational programs, regional development, European funds.